Reactivation of Varicella Zoster Virus after Vaccination for SARS-CoV-2
Mina Psichοgiou, Michael Samarkos, Nikolaos Mikos, Angelos Hatzakis
Abstract
Seven immunocompetent patients aged > 50 years old presented with herpes zoster (HZ) infection in a median of 9 days (range 7-20) after vaccination against SARS-CoV-2. The occurrence of HZ within the time window 1-21 days after vaccination defined for increased risk and the reported T cell-mediated immunity involvement suggest that COVID-19 vaccination is a probable cause of HZ. These cases support the importance of continuing assessment of vaccine safety during the ongoing massive vaccination for the COVID-19 pandemic and encourage reporting and communication of any vaccination-associated adverse event.
Topics & Concepts
VirologyVaricella zoster virusMedicineVaccinationVirusSevere acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)2019-20 coronavirus outbreakOutbreakInternal medicineInfectious disease (medical specialty)DiseaseSARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 ResearchHerpesvirus Infections and TreatmentsRetinal and Optic Conditions